An Engineering Approach to Optimal Control and Estimation Theory

A much-awaited guide to real-world problems in modern control andestimation This combined text and reference deals with the design of moderncontrol systems. It is the first book in this rapidly growing fieldto approach optimal control and optimal estimation from a strictlypragmatic standpoint. Sidestepping the realm of theoreticalmathematics, An Engineering Approach to Optimal Control andEstimation Theory offers realistic and workable solutions that canbe put to immediate use by electrical and mechanical engineers inaerospace and in many other applications. The author draws on his extensive experience in research anddevelopment from industry, government, and academia to presentsystematic, accessible coverage of all important topics, including: * All basic mathematics needed to apply subsequent information * A historical perspective on the evolution of modern control andestimation theory * All major concepts relevant to the design of modern controlsystems--from the Kalman filter, to linear regulators, todecentralized Kalman filters * Practical examples useful in applying the principles underdiscussion * Problems at the end of each chapter * Carefully selected references from the vast number of bookspublished on this subject * Appendixes reviewing matrix algebra that is central to moderncontrol theory, as well as matrix subroutines, useful to bothstudents and practicing engineers Optimal Control and Estimation Theory Optimal control and optimal estimation have seen tremendous growthover the past three decades, owing to major advances in aerospaceand other types of engineering. Optimal control and estimationtheory is crucial to the design of modern control systems; forinstance, navigation, mobile robotics, or automated vehicles andaircraft. It ensures that variables such as temperatures orpressure are kept in check, regardless of the disturbance thesystem undergoes. Despite the proliferation of books on the subject, most of thematerial published in this area is highly